Hearts close out narrow win

The Auckland Hearts have fended off the Otago Sparks to win the second One-Day match at Queenspark, Invercargill by 18 runs.

The Hearts once again batted first and behind 50 from Megan Tremaine posted a total of 223 for six. In reply the Sparks put up a valiant effort but were dismissed after 47.3 overs on 205.

Opener Lisa Grant and captain Suzie Bates combined early in the pursuit to take their side to 84 for one. Grant was then run-out on 34, but Bates soldiered on and brought up her half century off 76 balls.

Unfortunately for the home side though she would only reach 59 before being caught off the bowling of Megan Tremaine.

There were a number of starts which followed her dismissal, but it was Kylie Crowley who really took the reins with an unbeaten 39. No one was able to stick with her though, as the Hearts ran through the tail.

The Sparks were their own worst enemy in terms of dismissals, with a whopping five run outs in the innings.

It proved costly, as the Hearts 223 had almost been within reach.

Only two players failed to make a start for the visitors earlier on, as a combined effort with the bat took them past 200.

Alongside an even 50 from Tremaine, Maddy Green (39), Victoria Lind (35) and Holly Huddleston (30*) all played a significant role in establishing the total.

There may have been some disappointment that no-one went on to post a big score, but in the end it would still be enough.

The Hearts too were the victim of two run-outs, with the rest of the wickets shared amongst the bowlers.